What action does a referee take to signal a stoppage of the match?

The correct action a referee takes to signal a stoppage of the match is to blow the whistle and give a hand signal. This method is effective because it is both audible and visual, ensuring that all participants, including wrestlers, coaches, and spectators, are aware that the match has been stopped. The use of a whistle provides a clear sound that can be heard over the noise of the crowd or other distractions, while the hand signal offers a visual cue that reinforces the stoppage.

Other actions, while they may seem reasonable, do not provide the same level of clarity or authority. For example, raising both hands above their head may not be universally recognized as a signal to stop, potentially leading to confusion. Yelling "stop" may not be effective in a noisy environment, and a quick hand motion might not be noticeable or specific enough to convey the message clearly. Thus, the combination of a whistle and a hand signal is the most reliable method for indicating that the match should come to a halt.